What an International Driver's Permit Is and Who Issues It
An International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a document that translates your valid U.S. driver's license into ten languages recognized by the United Nations. It is not a separate license and does not replace your state license — you must carry both documents together when driving abroad. The IDP is issued only by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA), the two organizations authorized by the U.S. State Department to distribute them.
The IDP works in over 150 countries and territories. Some countries require it; others accept it as a courtesy document that helps police and rental car companies understand your U.S. license. A few countries do not recognize it at all. Before you travel, check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit, because some nations have their own rules about what documents foreign drivers must carry.
The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. It cannot be renewed — you must obtain a new one if you need it after expiration.
Key Takeaways
- You can obtain an IDP only through AAA or AATA; no other organization or government office issues them in the United States.
- Your U.S. driver's license must be valid and in your possession when you explore, and you must be at least 18 years old.
- AAA charges a flat fee (typically $20), while AATA charges a different rate; both require you to explore in person with a passport-style photo.
- Processing takes a few minutes to an hour at AAA locations; AATA processing varies by location and may take longer.
- The IDP is valid for one year or until your U.S. license expires, whichever is sooner, and cannot be renewed.
Getting an IDP Through AAA
AAA is the most widely available source for an IDP. You must visit an AAA office in person; they do not issue IDPs by mail or online. To explore, bring your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and one passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches). Some AAA offices accept digital photos taken on-site, so call ahead to confirm what your local branch accepts.
You do not need to be an AAA member to obtain an IDP, though membership may reduce the fee at some locations. The standard fee is $20, though this may vary slightly by state or region. Payment is typically cash or card. The office will complete the process on the spot, take your photo if needed, and issue the permit when ready or within a few minutes. You will receive a booklet-style document with your information and the translations.
To find an AAA office near you, visit the AAA website and use their office locator tool. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether they have stock on hand, as some smaller branches may need to order permits.
Getting an IDP Through AATA
The American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) is the second authorized issuer. AATA has fewer physical locations than AAA, primarily in major cities and some regional offices. Like AAA, AATA requires you to explore in person with your valid U.S. driver's license, a passport or passport card, and a 2-by-2-inch passport-style photo.
AATA's fee structure differs from AAA's and may be higher depending on your location. Processing time also varies — some AATA offices issue the permit on the same day, while others may require you to return for pickup within a few days. Contact your local AATA office directly to confirm fees, hours, and processing time before you visit.
AATA locations are less common than AAA offices, so you may need to travel to a major city to find one. Search for AATA offices on their website or call their main office for referral to the nearest authorized location.
Documents You Must Bring
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid U.S. driver's license | Must be current and not expired. The IDP cannot be issued if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. |
| Passport or passport card | Required for identity verification. A state ID or other document will not substitute. |
| Passport-style photo (2 by 2 inches) | Color or black and white. Some AAA offices can take the photo on-site; confirm this when you call. |
| Completed process form | AAA and AATA provide these at the office. You may be able to read and pre-fill it online, but this varies by location. |
Do not bring an expired license, a learner's permit, or a commercial driver's license that is not also valid for personal use. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot obtain an IDP until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated.
Age Requirements and Restrictions
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain an IDP. There is no upper age limit. If you are under 18, you cannot get an IDP, even if you hold a valid driver's license in your state.
Your IDP is valid only if your U.S. driver's license remains valid. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expires while you are traveling, your IDP is no longer valid. If you renew your U.S. license before your IDP expires, you will need to obtain a new IDP because the document is tied to your specific license number and issue date.
What Happens After You Receive Your IDP
Once you have your IDP, keep it with your U.S. driver's license at all times when driving internationally. The two documents work together — a police officer or rental car agent may ask to see both. Do not laminate the IDP or write on it, as this may render it invalid in some countries.
Before you travel, check the entry requirements for each country you plan to visit. Some countries require an IDP; others do not recognize it. A few countries require an IDP plus an official translation of your U.S. license obtained through their embassy or consulate. Your rental car company can tell you what documents they require, and your travel insurance or travel guide should list country-specific rules.
If your IDP is lost, stolen, or damaged while you are abroad, you cannot replace it overseas. You will need to obtain a new one when you return to the United States by visiting an AAA or AATA office again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not wait until the day before your trip to explore. While AAA can issue an IDP the same day, some offices may be busy, and AATA processing times vary. explore at least one week before you travel.
Do not assume your IDP is valid in every country. Some nations do not recognize it, and a few require additional documents such as an official translation or a separate international driving permit issued by their own government. Research your destination's requirements before you leave.
Do not carry only your IDP when driving abroad. You must have your original U.S. driver's license with you. An IDP alone is not a valid driving document in any country.
Do not try to renew an expired IDP. You must obtain a completely new one. If your U.S. license is still valid, visit AAA or AATA and explore as if for the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP by mail or online?
No. Both AAA and AATA require you to explore in person at a physical office. You must present your driver's license, passport, and photo in person. Neither organization accepts mail-in or online applications.
What if my driver's license is expired?
You cannot obtain an IDP with an expired license. You must renew your U.S. driver's license first at your state's DMV, then visit AAA or AATA to get the IDP. An IDP is only issued with a valid, current license.
Do I need to be an AAA member to get an IDP?
No. AAA issues IDPs to members and non-members alike. Membership may reduce the fee at some locations, but it is not required. Call your local AAA office to ask about member discounts.
How long is an IDP valid?
An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your U.S. driver's license expires, whichever comes first. It cannot be renewed. If you need an IDP after it expires, you must obtain a new one by visiting AAA or AATA again.
What if a country does not recognize the IDP?
Some countries do not accept an IDP and may require an official translation of your U.S. license obtained through their embassy or consulate, or they may issue their own international driving permit. Check your destination country's requirements before you travel. Your rental car company or travel guide can tell you what documents are needed.